Egypt: Refugee Protection in Egypt - What's Behind the Return Train to Sudan

Egypt: Refugee Protection in Egypt - What's Behind the Return Train to Sudan

Analysis - A special train left the Egyptian capital of Cairo for Aswan, a town close to the border with southern neighbour Sudan, in July 2025. The train, publicised by the Egyptian government as shiny, air-conditioned and free of charge, runs a weekly service. It is transporting Sudanese refugees who are willing to go back home. Sudan, however, has been in the midst of civil war since April 2023.

Refugee protection in Egypt: what’s behind the return train to Sudan

A special train left the Egyptian capital of Cairo for Aswan, a town close to the border with southern neighbour Sudan, in July 2025. The train, publicised by the Egyptian government as shiny, air-conditioned and free of charge, runs a weekly service. It is transporting Sudanese refugees who are willing to go back home. Sudan, however, has been in the midst of civil war since April 2023. The train arrives in Aswan after around 12 hours. Travelle…

Refugee protection in Egypt: what's behind the return train to Sudan

Egypt has hosted more Sudanese refugees than any other country since the start of the 2023 civil war.